woollen thermals
Well written, Stevesawol. I work outdoors in southern Norway year round, and spend a lot of time outdoors wintertime with racing dogs and skiing. All my experience confirms what Steveawol said. You must think in terms of three layers. Inner wool, inbetween fleece/wool and outer wind/waterproof layer. Remember that it is the trapped air in your clothes that keeps you warm. If your clothing is too tight there is no air, or warm air is expelled every time you move, and you have to heat up the cold air that comes in. So, large sizes with plenty of room.
Feet are going to be a problem. Bulky warm boots are not very handy on a bike (as another poster said "don't ask me how I know!") but thick woollen socks and ekstra soles in unlined boots are best. Again large fit, change your socks often and take a brisk walk, exercise, to keep blood circulating. Take boots off, if possible, for breaks, and especially if you want to warm your feet by the campfire - again, don't ask me how I know. I use army boots for biking and hiking. Works for me.
Despite all the advertising for miracle fibres, wool is still your best choice, and quality is usually expensive. A new "weave" of wool is "ull frotte", which is very warm and pleasant to wear.
Last bit of advice, stop often to warm up, the windchill factor on a bike is horrific. You can do yourselv some serious damage, and people who are dulled by cold often make fatal mistakes.
Good luck, and stay warm
Peter, in Oslo
"Too much of a good thing is.....just wonderful" Mae West
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